Your Ultimate Chiang Rai Travel Guide: Discover the White Temple and Local Gems

Chiang Rai is where northern Thailand’s pristine landscapes meet boundary-pushing local art. Standing out is the White Temple, Wat Rong Khun — a modern masterpiece of Buddhist art designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Its gleaming white exterior and surreal murals make it a must-see for travelers.

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If Wat Rong Khun is on your must-see list, give yourself time to relax in nature before and after your visit. This one-day itinerary blends Chiang Rai’s green countryside and cultural highlights — from a sprawling farm and a cozy café stop to temple time and a rooftop dinner.

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Red Barn House / Photo: Singha Park Chiang Rai Facebook

Start at Boon Rawd Farm, the estate behind Singha Beer, located at the entrance to Singha Park. This is where the massive eco-park began — about 8,000 hectares (approximately 24.2 million pyeong). Once barley fields, the area was transformed into a visitor-friendly park in 2012 and now offers free admission.

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The park’s name, Singha, means “lion,” symbolizing strength, courage, and leadership in Thai and Southeast Asian mythology. A giant golden lion statue greets visitors at the entrance — it’s one of the park’s most popular photo spots, so make sure to get that shot.

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The park is too big to cover on foot, but you can hop on a tram tour. Tickets are 150 baht for adults (about 6,000 KRW / 4.5 USD) and 50 baht for children (about 2,000 KRW / 1.5 USD), with departures from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The loop takes about 45–60 minutes and stops at five stations, so it’s an efficient way to see the grounds. You can also rent bicycles at the Red Barn House for about 100–150 baht per hour (about 4,000–6,000 KRW / 3.0–4.5 USD per hour).

Singha Park Chiang Rai / Photo: Singha Park Chiang Rai Facebook

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Now let’s explore Singha Park. Feed fish at Swan Lake, shop for local products, wander the Flower Bloom zone, and visit the mini zoo to feed the animals.

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The park is loaded with activities — scooter and golf-cart tours, zip-lining, climbing, an adventure ropes course, electric bikes, ATVs, and off-road buggies. In the tea fields, visitors often rent traditional costumes for photos or try picking tea leaves themselves. You can even sample premium Singha tea during your visit.

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The sports zone buzzes in the evenings with locals and visitors enjoying biking and zip-lining — it’s a lively spot to get active and meet people. With fresh air and plenty of photo-worthy corners, it’s a perfect full-day family destination. Summer can be much hotter than in Korea, so bring water and sunscreen. Start your day here to combine outdoor fun with Singha’s premium tea culture.

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Na.mo Cafe / Photo: Na.mo Cafe Facebook

After your park walk, pause for coffee at Na.mo Cafe (ณ.โม คาเฟ่), about a 10-minute drive from the park. Tucked beside Ban Mae Kon School right next to Singha Park, this rustic café (open 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) brews coffee from fresh beans grown on Doi Pang Khon and serves cool drinks — a perfect shaded spot to recharge.

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Na.mo isn’t just about coffee — the kitchen serves hearty dishes, from steak to Japanese–Korean–Mexican fusion plates. Locals rave about the espresso and the steak, and staff are known for friendly recommendations. Reviewers praise its cozy, homey vibe and solid flavors. It’s a great stop for a light brunch or coffee before heading to Wat Rong Khun.

Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chiang Rai Office website

Wat Rong Khun / Photo: Wat Rong Khun Facebook

Ready for the highlight? Head to Wat Rong Khun — Chiang Rai’s iconic blend of tradition and contemporary art and the high point of this route. The temple sits on Pa O Don Chai Road, about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Chiang Rai Airport and roughly a 20-minute drive from downtown. Chalermchai’s pure-white ubosot (ordination hall) mixes silver-leaf mosaics and layered spires for an almost dreamlike effect, while the interior murals pack a bold mix of social commentary and Buddhist philosophy.

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The temple is stunning any time of day, but many visitors swear the reflected light at dawn and sunrise is the most magical. It’s a top photo spot, so aim to arrive early to beat the crowds. Dress modestly — knees and shoulders should be covered (men can wear shorts).

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The temple is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The gallery hours are 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Monday–Friday and until 6:00 p.m. on weekends and public holidays. Entrance for foreign visitors is 200 baht (about 8,000 KRW / 6 USD).

Suan Singha Facebook

Finish your temple visit with a relaxing stop at Suan Singha, about a 10-minute walk from the temple. Head up to the rooftop for wide-open views of rice paddies and grazing cattle while you dine.

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Try the fresh tom yum soup, stir-fried noodles, and the popular Thai milk tea. Prices are affordable and portions generous, which locals love. There’s even a water-play area for kids, so it’s family-friendly. Escape the temple crowds here, enjoy mellow music and country views, and recharge for the afternoon — the staff are friendly and the service is attentive.

If you have extra time, head to nearby highlights like the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) or the Black House (Baan Dam). For a deeper northern Thailand experience, consider a Golden Triangle tour out to the Mekong River border. Soak up Chiang Rai’s easygoing vibes while you’re here.

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Seoyeon Moon, Travel+ reporter